The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Milltown needs services to support incoming families
‘STRONG INDICATIONS’ OF PLANS FOR 56 NEW FAMILY HOMES
COUNCILLOR Michael O’Shea (Fianna Fáil) has expressed concern at what he called “very strong indications” a voluntary housing association is pursuing land in Milltown to build 56 family homes – as he says the town is short of the services it needs for its current population, never mind an influx of new families.
Speaking at a recent Castleisland-Corca Dhuibhne Municipal District Meeting, Councillor O’Shea made it clear that he welcomes all families into the community, but he called for the town to receive services to match demand. And the Fianna Fáil Councillor feels the town is struggling as it is.
“There are very strong indications that a voluntary housing association pursuing land in Milltown to build 56 new family homes,” he said.
“We’re in crisis mode. Our brand-new primary school is absolutely full,” he said, adding that the school principal is looking into extending the school.
“Our post-primary school is not allowing in [some] children born and bred in Milltown because they don’t have the capacity.
“Our doctor service is being downgraded. We had a three-doctor service, now we have a locum,” he said, and he added that he has grave fears for the future of the service beyond the upcoming General Election.
Cllr O’Shea also said that a crèche in the town is also at full capacity.
“If you’re putting in 56 new families, where are these children going to get schools, crèches?” he added.
He said these houses would be used by ‘starter families’ and that the town would likely need services to provide for two to three children per family.
“I welcome them into the community,” he said, but called on Kerry County Council to talk to the relevant bodies to highlight his concerns and the need for additional services in Milltown.
He also said that locations such as Lios Póil, Annascaul, and Castlemaine need to be looked at more closely to provide for extra development in the county.